George Nerysoo, the Mackenzie Delta MLA, is taking a leave of absence from the role to seek treatment.
Nerysoo has been the MLA for Aklavik, Fort McPherson and Tsiigehtchic since late 2023. He began a treatment course in BC on April 9.
His leave of absence was first reported by the CBC, which said he had announced the move on Facebook after being charged with impaired driving in Fort McPherson.
Nerysoo declined an interview request but confirmed to Cabin Radio that he was “busy working on my personal issues.”
A spokesperson for the Legislative Assembly said Nerysoo had informed the assembly in March of his intention to attend treatment.
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“The Legislative Assembly does not routinely investigate a member’s personal reasons for absence,” the spokesperson said by email.
“However, if a member is absent for more than six committee days in a calendar year without a valid explanation, that committee is expected to seek the member’s removal from the committee to ensure the committee can carry out its work. Mr Nerysoo has provided an explanation for his upcoming absences.”
His treatment program lasts for several months and Nerysoo had advised the assembly that he would miss sitting days in the legislature as well as committee meetings.
“Members of the assembly receive an annual indemnity each fiscal year” governed by legislation, the assembly spokesperson added. “There is currently no provision for an unpaid leave of absence.”
